I believe I have read this statement somewhere: “find a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.” If you have been to Gilchrist Pharmacy anytime since 1977 and dealt with Fred Langston, you would most likely find this statement to be true. I think Fred definitely found his calling and also truly loved what he was doing.

Anytime Fred was working you would be greeted with a smile and usually asked how you were doing and also how your family was getting along, as well. If you spent anytime listening to the camaraderie that went on between the ladies that worked alongside Fred, and the other pharmacists, he was well loved by his co-workers as well.

I personally have not only dealt with Fred as my legal drug dealer, but also had the pleasure of attending church with he and his wife Joan. They are both great people and are an asset to Hartselle and our community. They raised both of their sons, David, who resides in Hartselle and Grant, who lives in California, here in Hartselle. Both Fred and Joan are also active in the lives of their grandsons, both of whom live in Hartselle as well. I am sure they will also be making additional trips to California to visit their other two grandchildren.

One thing that always seems to set Fred and the others apart is all of the folks there always take the time to help each individual who walks into their business. You never leave a stranger, and very few walk into the door without being greeted by name as they enter. Your needs and those of your family are top priority for all who are part of the business. This starts from the top and Fred was a shining example of how to take care of your customers and give them more than they were expecting.

Here is an example of them going above and beyond: when our oldest was born, he seemed to have one ear infection after another. It would seem that we were in the pediatrician’s office every week for several months. Along with the doctor’s visits, we were at the drug store every week as well. I remember Fred told me if we ever needed to charge the medication on account we were welcome to do so. That offer did come in handy a few times.

Fred, I wish you much happiness in your retirement. May God grant you continued good health along with His blessings. Hopefully, you will be able to work on your bucket list as well. Thanks for your service to all of us, you will be missed.

Randy Garrison is the president and publisher of the Hartselle Enquirer.